Sunburn — The morning read of what’s hot in Florida politics — 2.2.26

Good Monday morning and happy Groundhog Day.

Today is the deadline to submit your creative for your ad in the next edition of IN SESSION newspaper.

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The Associated Industries of Florida is endorsing Chief Financial Officer Blaise Ingoglia’s bid for a full term.

“Blaise Ingoglia is exactly who Florida needs as its Chief Financial Officer,” AIF President and CEO Brewster Bevis said.

“He understands that affordability starts with discipline and accountability – at every level of government. His commitment to protecting taxpayers from waste and promoting a competitive business climate will help keep Florida affordable for families, employers and job creators alike.”

AIF joins the Governor, 13 State Attorneys, and more than 70 state lawmakers in backing the Spring Hill Republican, who was appointed to the seat last year after now-U.S. Rep. Jimmy Patronis left the job to run for Florida’s 1st Congressional District.

“Our economy thrives when Floridians keep more of their hard-earned money,” Ingoglia said. “I am honored to earn the endorsement of one of our state’s biggest advocates for Florida’s dynamic business community. AIF understands that we need fewer regulations, lower taxes and greater opportunities for Floridians.”

Ingoglia is being challenged by a handful of Republicans in the Primary, most notably Rep. Kevin Steele, who seeded his campaign with a $5 million candidate contribution. No Democrat has filed to run as of Feb. 1.

Also running is no-party candidate John Smith. Assuming he makes the ballot and no Democrat files, non-GOP voters would be locked out of voting in the August Republican Primary.

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Breaking overnight — “State Department announces no citizen initiatives made 2026 ballot; pot campaign calls it premature” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Florida will have no citizen-proposed constitutional amendments on the 2026 General Election ballot after none met the signature deadline, according to the State Department, marking the first such cycle in decades. State officials said all 22 active initiatives failed to submit enough verified signatures by Sunday. The Smart & Safe Florida campaign, behind a recreational marijuana proposal, disputes that conclusion, arguing that county election offices may still be processing enough valid petitions to meet the 880,062 threshold, a disagreement likely headed to court. As of Sunday night, the state reported 783,592 verified signatures. The campaign said it submitted more than 1.4 million and believes additional county totals were not yet reflected. The effort faced major setbacks, including discarded petitions and fraud allegations, amid stricter rules enacted under HB 1205.

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Former News Service of Florida veteran journalists Dara Kam and Jim Saunders have joined State Affairs, a nonpartisan news and policy platform featuring in-depth coverage of state governments.

The two are launching State Affairs Florida, expanding the national platform to the Sunshine State starting Feb. 2.

Kam will serve as Senior Statehouse Reporter for the new bureau, while Saunders will serve as managing editor.

“Florida’s policy decisions ripple far beyond its borders. Opening a Tallahassee bureau lets us bring depth, context and institutional knowledge to coverage that too often gets flattened by daily churn,” State Affairs Editor-in-Chief and Chief Content Officer Alison Bethel said.

Kam, who previously hosted “Deeper Dive With Dara Kam” for News Service of Florida, will continue podcasting under a new title, “Between the Lines with Dara Kam.”

State Affairs officials describe the outlet as a “policy and politics intelligence platform” that combines “on-the-ground, nonpartisan reporting from statehouse journalists with AI-powered legislative and regulatory tools.”

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“More Winter weather leads to canceled flights and in Florida, falling iguanas” via The Associated Press — A powerful bomb cyclone plunged a vast stretch of the eastern U.S. into extreme cold Sunday, leaving about 29,000 customers without power in Florida and disrupting life from the Gulf Coast to New England. Roughly 150 million people were under cold-weather advisories or warnings, with the coldest air mass to reach South Florida since 1989. Florida saw flurries, icy crops and cold-stunned iguanas as temperatures dropped into the 30s, while the Panhandle fell into the 20s. The storm dumped nearly a foot of snow around Charlotte, North Carolina, triggered thousands of flight cancellations and caused widespread traffic accidents. Nationwide, more than 110 weather-related deaths have been reported since late January.

—”National Weather Service posts video of snow flurries east of Naples” via Mark H. Bickel of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News

—”Did it snow in Tampa Bay last night? Some flurries reported” via Chris Tisch and Michaela Mulligan of the Tampa Bay Times

—”It snowed! In Tampa Bay!” via Stephanie Hayes of the Tampa Bay Times

—“Cold weather triggers fire alarm and ground stop at Orlando International Airport” via Natalia Jaramillo of the Orlando Sentinel

—“Coldest daily record lows in over a century hit Miami-Dade, Palm Beach on Sunday, NWS says” via Cindy Krischer Goodman of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel

—“After record cold Sunday, when will the weather return to normal for Miami?” via David J. Neal of the Miami Herald

—”Sub-freezing weather causes some power outages in Lakeland” via Gary White of The Lakeland Ledger

—”Alaska-type cold without snow? What’s the point?” via Troy Moon of the Pensacola News Journal

—“The Groundhog Day Blizzard was a billion-dollar disaster” via Dennis Mersereau of The Weather Network

— SITUATIONAL AWARENESS —

—@Pontifex: I have received the greatly troubling news regarding an increase in tensions between Cuba and the United States of America, two neighboring countries. I echo the message of the Cuban bishops, inviting all responsible parties to promote a sincere and effective dialogue, to avoid violence and every action that could increase the suffering of the dear Cuban people.

Tweet, tweet:

—@RonDeSantis: Special Elections are quirky and not necessarily projectable re: a General Election. That said, a swing of this magnitude is not something that can be dismissed. Republicans should be clear-eyed about the political environment heading into the Midterms.

—@TedLieu: Dear @GovRonDeSantis: I dare you to do redistricting in FL. The only way to draw more lean GOP seats is to make existing incumbent GOP congressional districts weaker. Democrat Taylor Rehmet just flipped a ruby red state District in TX in a 30+ point shift. See you in November.

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— DAYS UNTIL —

Florida TaxWatch State-of-the-Taxpayer Dinner — 3; Milano Cortina Olympic & Paralympic Games begin — 4; ‘PARADISE’ season two premieres on Hulu — 21; Netflix docuseries ‘Drive to Survive’ premieres — 25; ‘Yellowstone’ spinoff ‘Y: Marshals’ premieres — 27; Boca Raton Mayoral referendums and City Council Elections — 36; last day of the Regular Session — 39; The Oscars — 41; ‘Peaky Blinders’ movie premieres on Netflix — 46; Special Election for SD 14, HD 87, HD 51 and HD 52 — 50; Yankees-Giants Opening Day matchup / Netflix’s first exclusive MLB stream — 51; MLB 14-game Opening Day slate — 52; new season of ‘Your Friends And Neighbors’ premieres on Apple+ — 60; Tampa Bay Rays first game at the newly repaired Tropicana Field — 63; ‘Handmaid’s Tale’ sequel series ‘The Testaments’ premieres — 65; Florida TaxWatch Spring Meeting begins — 72; MLB Jackie Robinson Day — 72; First Qualifying Period begins (Federal) — 77; Federal Qualifying Period ends — 81; F1 Miami begins — 88; ‘Star Wars: The Mandalorian and Grogu’ premieres — 109; new mission for ‘Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run’ premieres at Disney World — 109; MLB Lou Gehrig Day — 120; Second Qualifying Period begins (State) — 126; South Africa in the FIFA World Cup opener in Mexico City — 129; Steven Spielberg’s ‘Disclosure Day’ premieres — 130; State Qualifying Period ends — 130; ‘Toy Story 5’ premieres in theaters — 137; Florida GOP’s statewide debates for the Primary in its ‘Sunshine State Showdown’ — 144; Mexico will face live-action ‘Moana’ premieres — 149; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 152; Primary Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 157; MLB All-Star Game — 162; Domestic Primary Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 164; Primary Election: Deadline to register to vote or change party affiliation — 168; Primary Election: Deadline to request that ballot be mailed — 185; Primary Election: Early voting period begins (mandatory period) — 187; Primary Election Day — 197; Yankees host the Mets to mark the anniversary of 9/11 — 221; MLB Roberto Clemente Day — 225; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to UOCAVA voters — 229; General Election: Deadline to send vote-by-mail ballots to domestic voters — 234; Domestic General Election VBM Ballots Mailed deadline — 241; General Election: Deadline to register to vote — 245; Early Voting General Election mandatory period begins — 264; General Election — 274; ‘Godzilla Minus Zero’ premieres — 277; ‘Dune: Part 3’ premieres — 319; ‘Avengers: Doomsday’ premieres — 319; untitled ‘Star Wars’ movie premieres — 319; College Football Playoff national title game in Las Vegas — 357; Tampa Mayoral Election — 393; Jacksonville First Election — 414; Jacksonville General Election — 470; ‘Spider-Man: Beyond The Spider-Verse’ premieres — 488; ‘Bluey The Movie’ premieres — 550; ‘The Batman 2’ premieres — 606; ‘Avengers: Secret Wars’ premieres — 683; College Football Playoff national title game in New Orleans — 721; Los Angeles Olympics Opening Ceremony — 893; U.S. Presidential Election — 1,009; College Football Playoff national title game in Tampa — 1,085; ‘Avatar 4’ premieres — 1,409; College Football Playoff national title games in Miami — 1,449; ‘Avatar 5’ premieres — 2,140.

— TOP STORY —

“Florida will start offering driver’s license exams in English only” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — The Florida Department of Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles will stop offering driver’s license knowledge exams in languages other than English beginning Feb. 6, ending a longstanding practice aimed at accommodating non-English speakers. Officials said the change applies to all driver’s license classifications, including oral exams, and that the state will not provide translation services or other language assistance.

Under the new policy, all driver’s license knowledge and skills testing will be conducted exclusively in English. Previously, most non-commercial exams were available in multiple languages, while commercial license exams were limited to English and Spanish. The agency said the update standardizes testing statewide.

Supporters of the move argue that drivers should demonstrate English proficiency to safely navigate Florida roads, particularly in areas where signs and written instructions require reading comprehension. While many traffic signs rely on universally recognized colors and shapes, others require an ability to read English text.

Community and local official reactions have been mixed. Juan Pagan, president of the Florida Hispanic American Chamber of Commerce, said he understands the expectation that drivers know the country’s language, but warned the policy could be seen as an adversarial approach to assimilation that signals exclusion.

Local Tax Collectors, who administer driver testing, said they were caught off guard. Scott Randolph said his office received no advance notice and learned of the change through social media, adding there had been no prior discussion with tax collectors.

The impact could be significant in Central Florida, where nearly 40% of Orange County residents speak a language other than English at home, according to census data and there is strong demand for Spanish, Creole, and Portuguese testing options.

— STATEWIDE —

“Gov. Ron DeSantis gives an extra day off to state workers for America 250” via Jim Rosica of USA Today Network — The man who got the nickname “DeSantis Claus” for granting extra holiday days off to state workers is still delivering gifts after Christmas. DeSantis said he was giving state employees off for Presidents Day, Monday, Feb. 16. The announcement came during a Jan. 30 news conference on the “America 250 Florida” celebrations; July 4 is the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence. “You know, they have Presidents Day, and it’s actually federal. Florida does not recognize it,” he said at an appearance in Vero Beach. But “this year for America’s 250, we’ll recognize Washington’s Birthday, not just federally, but as a state holiday. So, our state offices will be closed, our state employees will be able to have the day off, which I know they’re not going to complain about.”

“Residents use FDLE immigration tip line to report neighbors, acquaintances” via Alice Herman of Suncoast Searchlight — In the first months after the Florida Department of Law Enforcement set up a tip line for people to report agencies for not complying with the state’s immigration laws, only a trickle of responses flowed in — and many of them focused less on police than on the people next door. The “Law Enforcement Accountability Dashboard” asks tipsters to identify non-compliant law enforcement agencies, but records obtained by Suncoast Searchlight show many submissions hinge on allegations about neighbors and community members suspected of being undocumented. Often embedded in those complaints are accusations that local agencies are not doing enough about it. One informant complained about his son’s bus driver being “foreign.” “These Haitian residents throw extremely loud parties 2 to 3 nights per week,” wrote a Lake Worth Beach resident. “The primary resident may be here legally, but we feel their party goers may not be.”

“Florida proposes teaching students about ‘the fall of Nicolás Maduro’” via Jeffrey Solochek of the Tampa Bay Times — Florida Education Commissioner Anastasios Kamoutsas moved quickly to propose new academic standards after the U.S. military captured Venezuelan President Maduro on Jan. 3. The Florida Department of Education filed notice days later to add material to its History of Communism standards describing Maduro’s fall, including references to drug trafficking allegations, ties to Iran, and U.S. indictments. The proposal, up for State Board of Education consideration Feb. 20, has drawn criticism from educators and Democratic lawmakers who argue events are still unfolding and lack historical perspective. Academic experts warned that the standards risk blending current events with ideology and omitting key context, such as oil politics. State officials said the changes reflect documented examples of how communist regimes abuse power.

“Nurse banned from working in state: ‘I’m a radical left scum’” via Michelle Spitzer of USA Today Network — A Florida labor and delivery nurse apparently isn’t keeping quiet online despite an expletive-filled social media post wishing President Donald Trump’s pregnant Press Secretary a painful childbirth that got her banned and fired from working in Florida. A Facebook account believed to belong to Lexie Lawler has numerous posts about her current situation and affirming that she is not backing down.

“Prosecutors drop charges against contractor in insurance fraud case” via Lawrence Mower of the Tampa Bay Times — When he was arrested on theft and fraud charges in 2023, contractor Ricky McGraw was held up as the poster child for Florida’s crumbling insurance market. McGraw was the “perfect example of the kind of scum” driving up insurance premiums, Florida’s then-Chief Financial Officer Patronis said in a news release announcing his arrest. But a week before his case was set to go to trial, prosecutors in Lee County dropped all charges. A spokesperson said it was because of insufficient evidence. McGraw, who was facing up to 60 years in prison, says he was “100% targeted” by an insurance company and the state because of the volume of claims he handled — and lawsuits he filed.

Happening today — CFO Ingoglia will hold a news conference in Beverly Hills, with remarks expected on state financial matters and media availability following: 9:30 a.m., Beverly Hills. Location upon RSVP with Abigail Weeks at [email protected].

— BIG BILL OF THE DAY —

“A developer wants to build a giant data center in Palm Beach — after lobbying for a tax break in Tallahassee” via Jason Garcia of Seeking Rents — A major land-use and economic development dispute is unfolding in Palm Beach County over Project Tango, a proposed hyperscale data center that could span nearly 2 million square feet and include multiple server buildings.

The project has drawn scrutiny not only for its size but for its relationship to a longstanding state tax incentive for large data centers. That exemption allows qualifying projects to avoid sales taxes on construction materials, equipment, and electricity consumption.

The incentive was first enacted in 2017, later extended in 2021, and again expanded in 2025. Legislative records and emails show developers actively supported extending the exemption, citing pandemic-related delays and infrastructure challenges.

After the tax break was enacted, the developers referenced it when seeking local extensions for the project. Utility and industry support for the incentive has framed it as a tool to attract large-scale investment and technology infrastructure.

At the local level, Project Tango moved quickly through preliminary county processes, including placement on a consent agenda shortly after clearing a planning review. Public opposition, however, prompted County Commissioners to delay a final vote until April.

The timing now intersects with broader policy debates in Tallahassee. Lawmakers and state leaders are increasingly weighing the environmental, energy, and artificial intelligence impacts, with at least one proposal filed this Session to end data center tax incentives altogether.

— LEGISLATIVE —

“House tests foreign drug pricing as cure for soaring prescription costs” via Lawrence Mower of the Tampa Bay Times — A House Committee this week advanced HB 697, a far-reaching proposal that would cap prescription drug prices in Florida based on what the same drugs cost in certain foreign countries. If a drug is not sold abroad, it would not be subject to the cap. Sponsor Jennifer Kincart Jonsson said the bill responds to data showing Americans pay more than four times as much for name-brand drugs as consumers in comparable economies. The measure has drawn strong Republican support, including from Webster Barnaby, who called current pricing “outrageous.” Pharmaceutical companies and some Democrats oppose the bill, warning of reduced innovation and potential shortages, arguments Kincart Jonsson disputes. DeSantis has previously pushed similar cost-cutting ideas, though the Senate has not yet taken up the bill.

”Another tort tussle in the House” via Christine Sexton of Florida Phoenix — The amount in damages that injured parties can recover in personal injury or wrongful death lawsuits could grow under a bill moving its way through the House. The Civil Justice & Claims Subcommittee voted 13-4 to pass HB 1553 onto its next — and only other — remaining scheduled stop, the Judiciary Committee. The four “no” votes were cast by Reps. Kim Berfield, Dean Black, Danny Nix, and Paula Stark. There are 56 lobbyist registrations for the bill, which would crack open a hard-fought, sweeping 2023 tort law (HB 837). Some trial court judges applying the law have held that the burden to produce evidence — including what a plaintiff’s health insurance would reimburse for care — falls solely on the plaintiff. Other judges have ruled that the burden also falls on the defendant.

“Not enough money: Plan to fix program for brain-damaged kids faces concerns” via Gray Rohrer of the USA Today Network – Florida — A long-running Florida program that pays for health care for children with birth-related neurological injuries faces a growing funding gap as projected claims outpace available assets. The Florida Birth-Related Neurological Injury Compensation Association reports $1.7 billion in expected claims and $1.5 billion in assets. Legislation moving through the Capitol aims to keep the program solvent but has drawn criticism for tightening benefits instead of raising assessments on hospitals and physicians. Supporters argue the bill creates safeguards to ensure long-term stability, while opponents say it could force families into difficult choices and reduce support. Lawmakers have sought reforms since a 2021 investigation exposed management failures and gaps in benefits.

“Debate grows over bill aimed to expand control of Port St. Joe Port Authority” via Riley Lehman of My Panhandle — State Representative Jason Shoaf wants to bring more business into the port at the old paper mill property in Port St. Joe. He’s filed a bill in Tallahassee that would expand the boundaries of the Port Authority and include Board members from Franklin, Gadsden, and Liberty counties. “The bill is simply changing the makeup of the Board to maintain a majority stake in Gulf County, but to bring in one seat from three other counties to be able to have skin in the game and a seat at the table. We need our neighbors and our region to buy into this. It is a regional port. It is propped up by state dollars. It is not city dollars or county dollars. It is the whole state investing in this,” Shoaf said. Shoaf first pitched the idea at a legislative delegation meeting in August, but residents say they only learned the bill was moving forward after a 30-day notice requirement appeared in the newspaper.

— MORE LEGISLATIVE —

“Bill to punish those who hide public records would put teeth in Sunshine Laws” via Scott Maxwell of the Orlando Sentinel — Unfortunately, in recent years, many politicians and bureaucrats have learned they can get away with hiding information, because the state’s Sunshine Laws lack teeth. The law says government officials must provide records, but it doesn’t provide much punishment for those who don’t comply. So, while some public agencies still do solid jobs providing records, especially at the local level, far too many thumb their noses at the public’s right to know. Fortunately, there’s a bill in the Legislature this year that attempts to fix that. It has broad, bipartisan support in one chamber and deserves the same in the other.

“Lawmakers should reject judgmental, heartless attacks on freedom, health” via the Orlando Sentinel — This year, more than usual, a group of Florida lawmakers is clinging to a Biblical-sounding principle — and doing their best to ensure that the wages of sin are, at the very least, misery. Instead, some lawmakers seem to be focused on making errant Floridians pay, with their financial security, their health, their freedom or even their lives if it comes to that, for acts that self-righteous leaders deem to be products of lascivious behavior. As usual, the list of evils leads off with a medical procedure that is never directly condemned in the Bible — and is arguably even sanctioned in Jewish texts when a pregnancy threatens a woman’s health. It’s worth noting that this year’s assault on abortion conveniently overlooks the many faith-based warnings against deceptive, misleading speech: It pretends to give pregnant women who suffer miscarriages the right to sue anyone they believe triggered the loss of their fetus. But in reality, the legislation (SB 164/HB 289) goes much further — treating very early pregnancies, or even fertilized eggs, as full human beings.

“Faith leaders raise concerns over Florida bill about religious freedom in schools” via Lauren Costantino of the Miami Herald — Religious leaders and interfaith advocates from across the state are sounding the alarm on a bill aimed at protecting religious freedom and expression in Florida public schools, arguing that it could lead to special protections for the dominant religious groups — such as Christianity — and weaken the lines between church and state. The bill called “Protection of Religious Expression in Public Schools” would amend Florida’s constitution to add language protecting students and staff from facing discrimination for expressing their religious beliefs in public schools, specifically in a student’s school work, clothing, prayer, moments of silence, and opening remarks at a high school event. The bill also allows students to organize prayer groups, religious clubs and other religious gatherings to the same degree as secular groups function.

— LEG. SKED. —

8 a.m.

Florida Youth Shine Day, Capitol Complex.

10 a.m.

The House Democratic Caucus will hold a media availability, Zoom link here.

11:15 a.m.

2026 Muslim Day at the Capitol, Capitol.

1 p.m.

House Security and Threat Assessment Committee, Room 12, House Office Building.

Space Florida Board of Directors meeting: Florida Department of Transportation, Burns Auditorium, 605 Suwannee St., Tallahassee.

3:30 p.m.

House Ways and Means Committee, Room 404, House Office Building.

Senate Criminal Justice Committee, Room 37, Senate Office Building.

Senate Governmental Oversight and Accountability Committee, Room 110, Senate Office Building.

Senate Health Policy Committee, Room 412, Knott Building.

Senate Military and Veterans Affairs, Space, and Domestic Security Committee, Room 301, Senate Office Building.

5:45 p.m.

Senate Special Order Calendar Group, Room 401, Senate Office Building.

— D.C. MATTERS —

“Donald Trump orders up IndyCar race on the streets of Washington for ‘America250 Grand Prix’” via Sahil Kapur of NBC News — Trump signed an executive order aimed at launching an IndyCar race on the streets of the District of Columbia this Summer during the celebration of America’s 250th birthday. The order instructs the Interior and Transportation departments, working “in coordination with the Mayor,” to design a race route near the National Mall that “will showcase the majesty of our great city as drivers navigate a track around our iconic national monuments.”

Continental Strategy inks deal with Kazakhstan — Continental Strategy has been retained by the government of Kazakhstan under a one-year, $3.3 million contract, according to a recent Foreign Agents Registration Act filing. The agreement calls for government relations work to build relationships across the executive and legislative branches. Founder Carlos Trujillo and partner Doug MacGillivray will lead the effort, with Democratic lobbyist Manuel Ortiz assisting as an independent contractor through Vantage Knight under a separate arrangement. The deal comes as Kazakhstan seeks closer ties with the U.S. following recent White House engagement, a critical minerals cooperation agreement, and its designation as a founding member of Trump’s Board of Peace. The country is also seeking U.S. approval to purchase sanctioned Russian oil assets located within its borders.

— ELECTIONS —

“Medicaid expansion ballot campaign relaunches and is collecting signatures” via Gabrielle Russon of Florida Politics — Florida Decides Healthcare (FDH) is going to start collecting signatures to aim for a 2028 ballot. “This campaign has always been about giving Florida voters a choice,” said Mitch Emerson, FDH’s Executive Director, in a statement. “Floridians overwhelmingly support Medicaid expansion, and starting February 1, we’re getting back to work in communities across the state to make sure their voices are heard.” FDH said it is working to secure Medicaid coverage for nearly 4 million Floridians who earn too much to qualify for traditional Medicaid but still struggle financially and cannot afford private insurance. FDH had previously targeted a 2026 ballot but decided to delay the date due to a new state law that adds hurdles for citizen-led ballot initiatives.

“Jim Oberweis starts 2026 with nearly $3M cash on hand for CD 19 race” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics — Republican Oberweis closed 2025 with nearly $3 million in the bank as he runs to succeed U.S. Rep. Byron Donalds. The former Illinois lawmaker, the first Republican to file after Donalds launched his bid for Governor, continues to largely self-fund his campaign. He loaned the campaign another $600,000 in the last quarter of the year and has put down $3.1 million in total. But he also reported more than $48,000 in outside contributions to the campaign. Since entering the race, Oberweis has been the cash leader in Florida’s 19th Congressional District. The former Illinois state Senator brings significant personal wealth to the race, having served as the former Chair of Oberweis Dairy. He now lives in Bonita Springs.

—“Jim Schwartzel wraps 2025 with $1.28M in the bank to run in CD 19” via Jacob Ogles of Florida Politics

“Richard Lamondin campaign reports nearing $700K raised toward flipping CD 27” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Businessman Lamondin is almost at the $700,000 mark in fundraising toward his bid for Florida’s 27th Congressional District. That includes more than $230,000 raised last quarter and $433,000 cash on hand entering 2026 — a war chest, his camp contends, that makes him “the clear fundraising leader and the only Democrat in the race building the coalition, infrastructure, and momentum needed” to flip CD 27 blue in November. His campaign added that “more than 2,200 bipartisan, grassroots donors” have given to him so far. “This campaign is about more than a number on a report — it’s about building something strong enough to actually change people’s lives,” Lamondin said.

“Greg Steube endorses Melton Little in HD 71 Republican Primary” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Republican Little has picked up a high-profile endorsement from U.S. Rep. Steube in the race to succeed term-limited state Rep. Will Robinson in House District 71. Steube has known Little for more than 20 years and describes him as a reliable conservative voice for Manatee County in Tallahassee, according to a press release from the Little campaign. “I’ve personally known Melton for over two decades, and Melton Little is the America First Patriot I trust to represent Manatee County in the Florida House,” Steube said. “I know Melton will fight for our constitutional rights, especially the right to bear arms and the right to life.”

— LOCAL: S. FL —

“South Florida’s homeless receive aid as temperatures forecast to drop to mid-20s” via Devoun Cetoute of the Miami Herald — As South Florida braced for overnight temperatures dipping into the low and mid-20s, outreach teams moved quickly on Saturday to protect one of the region’s most vulnerable populations. Florida Power & Light partnered with the Miami-Dade County Homeless Trust to distribute coats, gloves, blankets, hand warmers and sleeping bags to homeless individuals near the Stephen P. Clark Center in downtown Miami. The effort was part of the Trust’s Cold Weather Emergency Plan, which activates whenever temperatures fall below 50 degrees and includes expanded shelter placements countywide. By Saturday afternoon, about 300 people had already been placed into shelters since Friday. Homeless Trust Chair Ron Book joined City of Miami outreach workers during the distribution, underscoring the coordinated push to keep people safe as a potentially historic cold snap settled over South Florida.

“‘Very dangerous’: TPS termination looms for Haitians in Keys, Florida” via Keys News — The Trump administration’s termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for some Haitian refugees and migrants living in the U.S. (including in the Florida Keys) kicks in on Tuesday, Feb.3. The end of TPS for Haitians who have fled the Caribbean country’s gang violence, chaos and strife since the 2021 assassination of President Jovenel Moise, is creating local concerns. TPS designations allow refugees and immigrants fleeing wars, violence, persecution and natural disasters to live temporarily in the U.S. The Trump administration has been rolling back TPS status for several countries, including Haiti, to curtail migration flows into the U.S. More than 330,700 Haitians are currently living in the U.S. via TPS legal protections. The Florida Keys and South Florida have significant Haitian communities.

“A year later, new Broward schools watchdog hasn’t yet released findings of investigations” via Scott Travis of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — A year after the Broward School District contracted with the county’s Office of Inspector General to help it root out waste, fraud and abuse, the watchdog agency has yet to produce any reports identifying problems. Inspector General Carol “Jodie” Breece said her office currently has five active cases it’s investigating involving the School District and has reviewed more than 130 tips. But the office has released nothing so far that recommends changes to a School District that has been dogged for years by complaints of corruption and mismanagement. Most Broward School Board members say the inspector general’s progress has been too slow, and they are even considering severing ties. Breece said her office manages complex cases and that investigations are intended to be thorough, not quick. They can involve reviewing thousands of financial transactions. Some may take up to two years, she said. She said she expects the Office of Inspector General “to show some of our work” during the current fiscal year, which ends Sept. 30.

“‘Dangerous Escalation’: Emails show Miami Beach Mayor sent Facebook post to police” via Aaron Leibowitz of the Miami Herald — Miami Beach Mayor Steven Meiner emailed a screen shot of a resident’s negative Facebook comment about him to the city’s Police Chief one day before officers showed up at the woman’s home to question her about it — an incident that went viral and led to a wave of backlash. “As we discussed, please see the post below,” Meiner wrote in an email to Police Chief Wayne Jones, according to email records obtained by the Miami Herald. The subject line of Meiner’s email was “Dangerous Escalation.” Attached to the email was a screen shot of a Facebook comment by Raquel Pacheco, a former candidate for local and state offices.

“Will they or won’t they? Pompano Beach is next to consider ditching Broward Sheriff’s Office” via Rafael Olmeda of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel —In the wake of Deerfield Beach’s vote to replace the Sheriff’s Office with its own independent police and fire-rescue services, neighboring Pompano Beach is anticipating a consultant’s report that will show whether it would be better off financially if it followed Deerfield’s example. At the same time, the Broward County Commission authorized its own consultant to determine whether to relieve the Sheriff’s Office from law enforcement responsibility for Port Everglades and the Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport. Pompano Beach, with an estimated population of 118,000, is the largest city under contract with the Sheriff’s Office. It disbanded its police department in 1999 but has maintained its fire-rescue service. Last year, when Sheriff Gregory Tony pitched an annual contract increase of 16%, Pompano responded by commissioning a report on the cost of independence. “Our report is expected to be before the Commission for the Feb. 24 meeting,” said Pompano Beach Mayor Rex Hardin.

“South Florida tourism bureau lauds Fontainebleau revamp ahead of Preservation Board review” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — South Florida’s chief tourism marketing agency is throwing its support behind the Fontainebleau Miami Beach’s proposed pool deck renovations, which are up for a preservation review next month. In a letter to the Miami Beach Historic Preservation Board, Greater Miami Convention and Visitors Bureau (GMCVB) President and CEO David Whitaker stressed that the city must keep reinvesting and diversifying to stay competitive with other global destinations — and that’s precisely what the Fontainebleau project is doing. “(Our) destination must continually evolve, reinvesting in existing assets, diversifying visitor experiences, and responding to changing travel patterns,” he said, adding that when cities don’t modernize their hospitality offerings, they risk losing market share.

Miami Mayor Eileen Higgins elevated to national stage — Higgins has been appointed a vice president on the Democratic Mayors Association’s newly announced 2026–2027 Executive Board, giving Florida a seat at the table in a national organization focused on cities with populations of 30,000 or more. Higgins is the only Mayor from the Sunshine State selected for the new Board, which will help guide the association’s efforts to support and elect Democratic Mayors, promote best practices in city governance, and amplify local leaders’ voices within the Democratic Party. The Democratic Mayors Association works on issues ranging from housing affordability and public safety to infrastructure, economic growth and equity. Executive Director Virginia Mayer said the Board reflects a diverse group of Mayors delivering tangible results for residents while shaping a more inclusive future for American cities.

“DeSantis taps lawyer David J. Smith for Miami Dade College Board” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — The Miami Dade College Board of Trustees has a new member, courtesy of DeSantis’ appointment pen. DeSantis has tapped Smith, a lawyer with multiple professional ties to the United States Armed Forces, to serve on the seven-member panel. Smith works today as a special assistant to the Combat Commander and speechwriter for the U.S. Southern Command Commander’s Action Group. He also serves in the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve as a civil affairs officer and judge advocate. Previously, he worked as a prosecutor in the Office of the Miami-Dade County State Attorney, under Katherine Fernandez Rundle. Florida Bar records show Smith was admitted to practice law in May 2013. He holds a bachelor’s degree in political science from the University of Miami and a Juris Doctor from Suffolk University.

“Alexis Yarbrough, Mario Zanotti-Cavazzoni reappointed to Broward College Board” via Jesse Scheckner of Florida Politics — Broward College District Board of Trustees Chair Yarbrough and Board member Mario Zanotti-Cavazzoni are keeping their posts. DeSantis reappointed both just under three years after he first named them to the five-member panel, which also includes Vice Chair Reggie Zachariah and Trustees Michael Caschette and Eileen LaMarca, the wife of Republican Rep. Chip LaMarca. The Broward College District Board is the institution’s governing body, responsible for setting strategic direction, establishing policy, approving the annual budget and overseeing the management of college property and personnel.

— LOCAL: C. FL —

“Anti-ICE protest in Central Orlando draws crowd of more than 1,000” via Brian Bell of the Orlando Sentinel — More than 1,000 people gathered in Orlando on Saturday afternoon to send a message to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement: Get out of Central Florida. The protest started at noon on the southwest edge of Fashion Square Mall and quickly spread to all four corners at the intersection of East Colonial Drive and Herndon Avenue during the ICE Out of Orlando protest. Protesters of all ages and ethnicities chanted and waved signs, while passing motorists honked in support. Corey Hill, one of the event’s organizers with 50501 Orlando (50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement), said afterward he was pleased with how smoothly things went. “It was pretty successful. I am not the best crowd estimator, but we handed out 500 signs, and there were more than that,” Hill said. “I would venture to guess somewhere in the close to 2,000 range.”

“‘Over our ceiling’: Orange County Jail flooded with ICE detainees” via Ryan Gillespie of the Orlando Sentinel — The number of ICE detainees booked into the Orange County Jail without any local criminal charges has surged more than fourfold in recent months, massively straining facility staff and creating unsafe conditions. The skyrocketing number of detentions contributed to rumors this month of an escalation in U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement activity in Orlando, leading Democratic congressmen Darren Soto and Maxwell Frost to issue legal guidance and advocacy groups receiving 10 times the number of calls for help from families of detainees. In October, the Orange County Jail had a daily average of 30 immigration-only detainees. Over the past two weeks, the average daily count spiked to 162. County Public Safety Director Danny Banks said 182 people were housed in the jail solely on immigration charges. “We’re already at the top of the chimney – we’re over our ceiling,” Banks said. “I know Orange County Jail can no longer continue to be their dumping port for all of their regional arrests.”

“Fort Meade residents hurl skepticism at massive data center during forum” via Gary White of the Lakeland Ledger — A property on the north side of Fort Meade is the ideal location for a data center, two leaders of the company proposing to build the facility told residents. During a community town hall the evening of Jan. 29, though, it became obvious that one factor could hamper the project’s prospects: the attitudes of those who would be living near the data center. About 250 residents attended the meeting in the auditorium at Fort Meade Middle-Senior High, and none who spoke expressed support for the proposed facility. In questions and statements, residents’ views ranged from concerned and skeptical to downright hostile. “As far as I’m concerned, I’m dead set against this,” an unidentified speaker said. “We’re a small town. We don’t want you here. Go somewhere else.”

— LOCAL: TB —

“‘Difficult decisions’: St. Pete faces $18M budget gap” via Mark Parker of St. Pete Catalyst — City Council members have adjusted their spending priorities for the upcoming fiscal year. St. Petersburg faces a $17.87 million preliminary budget gap, more than double the deficit at this point in fiscal year 2023. Proposed property tax legislation could eliminate $89 million in expected revenue, forcing officials to reduce all non-public safety expenditures by 47% in 2027. The current goal is to “balance the city’s needs with its resources by making difficult decisions” based on shared priorities. “Imagine literally cutting our budget 50%,” said Council Chair Lisset Hanewicz. “Those are jobs; those are people. That’s services. What happens to the economy of a city? Because the government is a partner in making a city work. “It’s so frustrating to be continuously attacked for something that is necessary in a society.”

“St. Petersburg Housing Authority backs Blake Investment Partners’ Historic Gas Plant District bid” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — The St. Petersburg Housing Authority is stepping into the city’s most consequential redevelopment debate, issuing a letter of intent backing Blake Investment Partners’ proposal for the Historic Gas Plant District. Housing Authority President and CEO Michael Lundy said the agency supports Blake’s vision for the 86-acre site surrounding Tropicana Field, citing its emphasis on affordable and workforce housing and signaling interest in a future partnership should Blake’s bid be selected by the city. “We are excited about the possibility of partnering with Blake Investment Partners on the Gas Plant District redevelopment,” Lundy said. “The St. Petersburg Housing Authority welcomes the opportunity to work on projects that expand access to affordable housing in the City of St. Petersburg.” The letter of intent comes as city officials prepare to review proposals submitted in response to a formal request for proposals that close Feb. 3.

“Will Pasco rename a road after Trump? County Commissioner floats the idea” via John C. Cotey of the Tampa Bay Times — Is Pasco County ready for a Trump Road? County Commission Chair Jack Mariano floated the idea at the Board’s Jan. 20 meeting, suggesting the county explore renaming Ridge Road after Trump once the long-awaited project is completed, with the hope the name might entice the President to attend a ribbon-cutting or ceremony. “I think, especially with what we did with Ridge Road, we should look at changing the name and call it Trump Road,” Mariano said. Mariano said he got the idea after seeing a social media post from the previous week in which Palm Beach County named a road after the President. Moriano said the county is working on getting Trump to Pasco County for “the final cut with Ridge Road as we get this thing built,” adding that a namesake road could help seal the deal.

— LOCAL: N. FL —

“U.S. Navy Commander at Mayport jailed in child sex crime investigation” via Teresa Stepzinski of the Florida Times-Union — A commander at Naval Station Mayport was jailed on sex crime charges after being arrested in a St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office investigation. U.S. Navy Cmdr. Jonathan Saburn, 44, was arrested Jan. 30 while on duty at Naval Station Mayport with assistance from the Navy Criminal Investigative Services and the U.S. Marshals Service. He was jailed without bail on charges of lewd or lascivious molestation, lewd or lascivious exhibition and child abuse.

“Pensacola’s Hard Rock project gives last call for local contractors” via Jim Little of the Pensacola News Journal — Construction of the Reverb by Hard Rock Hotel and Rythm Lofts apartments at Community Maritime Park is planned to begin construction later this year, but any locals in the construction business wanting to get a part of more than $200 million have one more chance to get involved before the project gets underway. Wisconsin-based Corporate Contractors Inc., Inspired Communities of Florida, also known as The Dawson Company, and Emmitt Smith’s E Smith Advisors are building the 12-story, 147-room hotel and 16-story, 248-unit apartment tower at Community Maritime Park.

— LOCAL: SW. FL —

“Mike Rahn seeks another term in District 4 as Manatee County navigates growth and storm recovery” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — Manatee County Commissioner Rahn has launched his re-election campaign, framing his first term around storm recovery, infrastructure upgrades and holding the line on taxes as Manatee County continues to grapple with growth and post-hurricane rebuilding. Rahn, a Marine Corps veteran who represents District 4, said his campaign is rooted in tangible results delivered during a period marked by major storms and increasing pressure on county infrastructure. He faces a challenge from Republican Glen Gibellina. “We’ve delivered real results for District 4 by rebuilding stronger after the hurricanes, slowing unsustainable growth, investing in critical infrastructure, and holding the line on taxes,” Rahn said.

“Responsible Government Naples endorses Ray Christman, Dan Barone, John Langley for City Council” via Jesse Mendoza of Florida Politics — A group representing Naples business and civic leaders is backing three candidates in the upcoming Naples City Council election, offering a different slate of endorsements than another prominent civic organization that weighed in earlier this month. Responsible Government Naples is supporting incumbent Christman, Barone and Langley. In a letter sent to voters ahead of the Feb. 3 Municipal Election, the group said the candidates prioritize transparency, fairness and responsible leadership. The group cited issues such as growth and development, traffic and congestion, property taxes, city finances, infrastructure and quality of life. The letter from Responsible Government Naples said Christman, Barone and Langley possess the business and civic leadership experience necessary to effectively represent residents and businesses.

“‘I stand with Matt’: Matt Devitt could be bigger than WINK after Florida fury” via Charles Runnells of the Fort Myers News-Press & Naples Daily News — WINK News abruptly fired its popular chief meteorologist. And Southwest Florida viewers howled with hurricane-force fury. Since then, they haven’t been shy about letting the Fort Myers CBS affiliate know: They want Devitt back on the air. Now. That’s been particularly obvious on WINK News’ Facebook page, where the news broadcast’s posts — and especially anything weather-related — are often accompanied by viewers’ snippy, trolling comments. “He has a brand that’s almost as big as the WINK News brand,” says veteran broadcaster Matt Mangas.

— TOP OPINION —

“MAGA’s war on empathy” via Hillary Rodham Clinton for The Atlantic — The killing of Alex Pretti, an ICU nurse shot by federal agents after trying to help a woman they had thrown to the ground, has become a grim symbol of what unchecked power now looks like in Trump’s America. Along with the killing of Renee Good, the videos shattered official claims and exposed a response marked by cruelty, dishonesty, and indifference to human life.

These deaths have forced Americans to confront not just abusive enforcement tactics, but a deeper moral collapse. Whatever one believes about immigration policy, the lack of compassion for victims, terrified families, and children afraid to leave their homes reveals something profoundly broken.

Cruelty has become a feature, not a flaw, of the MAGA worldview. Fear is the tool, spectacle the strategy. Heavily armed federal forces are deployed not just to enforce the law, but to intimidate, something prior Presidents managed to avoid even while deporting millions.

This rejection of empathy is now being dressed up as virtue by hard-right Christian influencers who argue that compassion itself is sinful or weak. That inversion of basic Christian teaching has emboldened extremism and marginalized mainstream religious voices.

Faith leaders who call for mercy, including Episcopal Bishop Mariann Edgar Budde, have been vilified for asking the President to show compassion to frightened immigrants and vulnerable Americans. The backlash revealed how far empathy has been rebranded as an enemy.

Christian nationalism, which fuses political power with religious domination, has gained ground in Washington, openly rejecting pluralism and democratic norms. Its rise is fueled by social media ecosystems that reward outrage and punish restraint.

History offers a stark contrast. Former leaders, including President George W. Bush, embraced compassion as a strength, saving millions of lives through initiatives such as PEPFAR. Today, those commitments are being dismantled.

Empathy does not weaken society. It strengthens it. Without it, democracy frays, cruelty spreads, and the nation loses its moral bearings. Rejecting cruelty and choosing compassion remains the only path forward.

— MORE OPINIONS —

“We don’t have to be like this” via Nicholas Kristof of The New York Times — The killing of Pretti and the rise of Gregory Bovino have come to symbolize two sharply different visions of America, defined less by ideology than by values and power. Pretti, a 37-year-old ICU nurse, was known for empathy, public service and a willingness to help others, traits that culminated in his fatal attempt to protect a woman during a federal enforcement action. Bovino, a senior federal commander, has embodied an aggressive, militarized approach to law enforcement that has drawn praise from hard-line supporters and condemnation from courts documenting patterns of violence and misconduct. These cases highlight a broader national reckoning over the use of force, accountability and the meaning of law and order. The contrast has sharpened public scrutiny and forced a stark question about which set of values the country is prepared to accept.

“Stop DeSantis from spending too much money” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — Florida lawmakers face their only constitutional mandate this Session: passing a balanced budget, a task complicated by tightening revenue projections and years of unchecked executive spending. While current estimates show a modest surplus for 2026–27, long-term forecasts point to multibillion-dollar shortfalls beginning the following year, making restraint unavoidable. Planning responsibly does not mean abandoning core obligations such as public education, health care, and support for struggling families, but it does require ending indulgence of costly political whims. DeSantis’ budgets have grown dramatically, with spending decisions that lawmakers neither authorized nor effectively challenged. With reserves finite and future gaps looming, legislators must choose between capitulation and stewardship. A disciplined, compassionate budget that reins in excess now is the best chance to protect Florida’s fiscal stability and its most vulnerable residents.

“With Alligator Alcatraz testimony, Florida is learning the cost of immigration panic” via the Miami Herald editorial board — A federal court hearing is raising new questions about conditions at Alligator Alcatraz, a state-run immigration detention facility west of Miami-Dade County that opened seven months ago. Former detainees testified this week that they were denied meaningful access to attorneys, pressured to sign deportation papers they did not understand, and faced restrictions on communication and basic necessities. The testimony came during a lawsuit seeking a temporary injunction to require the facility to provide the same level of legal access as other immigration detention centers. Plaintiffs allege violations of constitutional rights, including access to counsel and free speech. State and federal officials dispute the claims, saying the facility meets required standards, while acknowledging recent policy changes to expand attorney access. A ruling is pending.

“A Broward lawmaker stokes our fears” via Steve Bousquet of the South Florida Sun-Sentinel — At the Capitol Thursday, dozens of people, including high school students from Broward and beyond, urged lawmakers to reject a domestic terrorism bill that they fear could have a chilling effect on free speech, especially on college campuses, and result in peaceful protesters being labeled as terrorists. House Bill 1471 is championed by a Broward legislator, Rep. Hillary Cassel, who’s seeking re-election as a Republican. “The bill protects ideology. This bill focuses on terrorist conduct,” Cassel said. Cassel’s goal is also to have more layers of secrecy — the last thing Florida needs.

“Lawmakers should reject judgmental, heartless attacks on freedom, health” via the Orlando Sentinel editorial board — A growing bloc of Florida lawmakers is invoking biblical language to defend policies that punish rather than protect, prioritizing moral judgment over compassion. That approach is most evident in abortion-related bills that treat fertilized eggs as full legal persons, deceptively framed as miscarriage lawsuits but likely to trigger invasive, punitive litigation. By extending standing to both “parents,” the measures risk empowering abusers and ensnaring families and nonprofits. Lawmakers are also undercutting prevention by restricting sex education and requiring parental consent for STD treatment, even when delays endanger teens’ health or lives. Similar barriers threaten adults through efforts to defund reproductive health providers and cut HIV medication programs. Together, these actions reflect a moral failure that sacrifices health, dignity, and public well-being for ideology.

“I built AI software. Florida’s AI bill makes sense” via David Rabjohns of the Naples Daily News — I spent my career building software that used artificial intelligence and machine learning to help Fortune 1000 companies make better decisions. I started my company when most people had never heard of AI, built it into a valuable business, and sold it. I am not a technophobe. I believe deeply in innovation. I also believe Florida should pass SB 482, the Artificial Intelligence Bill of Rights. The bill, now before the Senate Appropriations Committee, would establish basic consumer protections: the right to know when you’re talking to an AI instead of a human, restrictions on selling your personal data, protection against deepfakes, and parental controls so parents can monitor their children’s interactions with AI chatbots. That last provision responds to documented cases of AI chatbots encouraging children to harm themselves.

“Rattlesnake Key is a treasure. Don’t make it a tourist trap” via Jim Boyd for the Sarasota Herald-Tribune — Rattlesnake Key is a low stretch of mangroves whose roots anchor the island in place. The native plants not only maintain the island’s shape; they also serve as home to fish, small mammals and shorebirds. Anyone who has motored, sailed or paddled by the quiet key has surely caught a glimpse of pelicans and osprey – or found snook, redfish and snapper in the shallow waters. Rattlesnake Key was first discovered by early Spanish explorers. They named it not for its wildlife, but for the shape of the island, because it resembles a snake with open jaws. For generations, we have been blessed to enjoy it as they first saw it: wild, quiet and largely untouched. The future of Rattlesnake Key, Knott-Cowen and the surrounding properties, however, is now at risk.

— INSTAGRAM OF THE DAY —

— ALOE —

“Groundhog Day: Punxsutawney Phil, shadows and the promise of Spring” via Lianna Norman and Samantha Neely of the USA Today Network – Florida — Groundhog Day returns Monday, Feb. 2, reviving a quirky Winter ritual centered on whether Punxsutawney Phil sees his shadow at sunrise, expected around 7:07 a.m. ET. If he does, tradition says Winter drags on for six more weeks; if not, Spring comes early. The ceremony, held annually at Gobbler’s Knob in western Pennsylvania, dates to the late 1800s and traces its roots to Pennsylvania Dutch folklore imported from Europe. Phil’s handlers claim the groundhog is more than 140 years old, sustained by a mythical “groundhog punch,” though the average groundhog lives just a few years. The prediction carries no scientific weight, but it reliably draws national attention, offering a bit of humor, pageantry, and shared distraction during the long stretch between Winter and Spring.

— HAPPY BIRTHDAY —

Happy birthday to one of Florida’s best lobbyists, our friend and Fulton and Anna‘s mom, Katie Webb of Colodny Fass. Also celebrating today are Matt Bogdanoff and Eric Jontz.

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Sunburn is authored and assembled by Peter Schorsch, Phil Ammann, Daniel Dean, Ryan Nicol, Jacob Ogles, and Drew Wilson.